Today's confirmation that Apple is going x86 makes today a historic day in the industry. It may mean that Microsoft might see a few percent decline of their market share the next few years, but what about Linux? If Linux were to lose an equal amount of share it would alter its spread to the desktop, a spread that has been very positive so far.

Youve got Apple(the hardware and the OSX)
Youve got Lemon(Microsoft) and youve got the penguin. This event is not comparable.

The OSX and windows are the same thing with the exception on a pretty interface. Linux isnt about being pretty, or being able to make a pretty picture, its about the user. Anyone who sees Linux for what it is, wouldnt even question not using Linux.

before this switch, Mac was at least somwhat configurable, and user friendly, but this is just them jumping onto the commercialized boat. I believe this move will only make Linux on the desktop as people are going to stop paying thousands of dollars for pretty machines that dont let them "work with the computer".
people complained about the monopoly microsoft was, and how rediculous it was to have one company distribute so much of its product as it was the only company that made / sold that product. Now x86 are going to have even more market share and will be able to do whatever they want with their own pricing.
There is nothing about this event that will hinder Linux's growth on the Desktop, in fact, I believe it will expedite the whole process.